Half of young Israelis support separation of religion and state; 70 percent think rift can be bridged between religious and secular

Yehudit Yahav|Published: 03.25.07 , 11:50

The majority of young Israeli adults are optimistic about bridging the rift between the secular and religious Jews in Israel.

Only 35 percent of men and 25 percent of women believe that the differences were irreconcilable. This data was revealed in a survey conducted by TGI among 10,000 young men and women between the ages of 18-35.

Approximately 55 percent think that the status quo regarding the boundaries between state and religion should be maintained; but only 30 percent think that entertainment venues should not be opened on Shabbat.

Sixty-five percent said they feel more Israeli than Jewish. However, 82 percent of men and 85 percent of women agree that the Jewish traditions should be maintained. About 30 percent said they kissed the mezuzah when entering or exiting a room.

Another survey conducted by the New Family organization showed that there was an increase from 45 to 53 percent in the number of Israelis supporting civilian marriages.